Exploring the Riveting Series 'Plevako': A Historic Drama
In November 2024, audiences were invited to dive into the captivating realm of courtroom dramas and historical recreations through the new series "Plevako". This project, inspired by the life of the renowned attorney of the Russian Empire, Fyodor Plevako, sparked significant intrigue from the very first episodes. With its atmospheric storytelling, impressive cast, and distinctive direction, it has quickly become a topic of conversation among viewers.
Who is Plevako?
Fyodor Nikiforovich Plevako, often referred to as the "Moscow Golden Voice," stands out as one of the most celebrated legal defenders in the history of the Russian Empire. His name is synonymous with eloquent courtroom speeches that have not only swayed judges but touched the hearts of listeners. However, the series presents its version of this historical figure. Here, the protagonist, Nikolai Fyodorovich Plevako, is depicted as a fictional character, drawing on the essence of his real-life counterpart but tailored for dramatic storytelling.
The creators made it abundantly clear from the outset: their work is not a verbatim reconstruction of historical events, but rather an artistic reinterpretation. This approach allowed the screenwriters and director Anna Matison—who intriguingly happens to be the spouse of the lead actor, Sergey Bezrukov—to broaden the narrative's scope and introduce elements that make the series both contemporary and engaging.
Plot and Atmosphere
The story kicks off with one of the most famous instances attributed to Fyodor Plevako: the defense of a poor old woman accused of stealing a teapot. Within the show, this scene transcends mere episodic content, morphing into a powerful introduction to the main character. Bezrukov’s portrayal of Plevako is filled with irony and depth, drawing parallels between Russia’s historical catastrophes and the fate of his client. This narrative not only introduces viewers to the central figure but also reinforces the series' overarching theme: justice should be rooted in humanity and empathy.
Yet, the series goes beyond the confines of the courtroom. The creators skillfully exploit the genre’s possibilities, integrating dynamic sequences in Moscow’s Kitay-Gorod, where our hero finds himself embroiled in bare-knuckle fights, reminiscent of Guy Ritchie's films. Slow-motion scenes, unexpected twists, and vibrant supporting characters infuse energy into the action, rendering "Plevako" appealing not just to history enthusiasts but also to avid fans of action dramas.
A Profound Historical Context
"Plevako" delves into Russia’s rich historical tapestry. The character of Plevako is shrouded in numerous myths and contradictions, providing the show's authors fertile ground for creativity. For instance, the origins of the attorney remain ambiguous. While some sources allege that his father was a Polish revolutionary and his mother a Kalmyk, other studies debunk this romantic narrative in favor of more pragmatic explanations. The series creators opted for the Kalmyk tale, interspersing scenes with Kalmyk dialogue (complete with subtitles) and even showcasing traditional dances.
Bezrukov in the Lead Role
Sergey Bezrukov, known for his remarkable ability to embody characters fully, astounded viewers yet again. His portrayal of Plevako reveals him as not only a brilliant attorney but a charismatic leader, exhibiting a unique blend of intellect, charm, and warmth. Bezrukov artfully conveys the nuanced line between the character's professional confidence and his internal doubts, making him complex and relatable.
Director Anna Matison has masterfully accentuated her husband’s performance. This partnership is not new, as they have previously collaborated on several projects, but their creative synergy in "Plevako" has reached new heights. The deep understanding between director and actor has allowed them to flesh out the main character's depth, an essential factor in a legal drama.
A Stellar Ensemble Cast
Complementing Bezrukov's performance is a remarkable ensemble, featuring actors like Nikolai Shraiber, Olga Lerman, Igor Gordin, Maria Smolnikova, Zoya Berber, and others. Each character adds to the period's ambiance, transforming each case into a small drama and every episode into a standalone story.
Balancing Fiction and Reality
Despite the fictionalized elements of several storylines, the series endeavors to maintain an authentic representation of its era. Viewers will not only witness the daily nuances of the 19th century but will also grapple with questions that resonate in contemporary society: What does justice truly mean? How do we navigate the fine line between personal beliefs and societal norms?
The series' creators acknowledge that their work leans more toward dramatic experimentation than a documentary venture. Yet, this uniqueness is what sets "Plevako" apart. Unlike conventional historical dramas, the series boldly intertwines genres, blending elements of detective work, drama, and action.
The Future of the Series
Comprising ten episodes, each approximately 52 minutes long, "Plevako" has already made waves of interest among both viewers and critics. This production, crafted by the ROK Film Studio with the collaboration of the Internet Development Institute, NTV channel, and Premier platform, is poised to become a significant highlight in the television season.